Sunday, December 28, 2008

9 But behold, the Spirit hath said this much unto me, saying: Cry unto this people, saying—aRepent ye, and prepare the way of the Lord, and walk in his paths, which are straight; for behold, the kingdom of heaven is at hand, and the Son of God bcometh upon the face of the earth.

10 And behold, he shall be aborn of Mary, at bJerusalem which is the cland of our forefathers, she being a dvirgin, a precious and chosen vessel, who shall be overshadowed and econceive by the power of the Holy Ghost, and bring forth a son, yea, even the Son of God.

11 And he shall go forth, suffering pains and aafflictions and btemptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will ctake upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people.

What is hope? President Uchtdorf stated, "Hope is a gift of the Spirit."

Faith gives us hope.

President Uchtdorf also stated in his talk, "Hope is one leg of a three-legged stool, together with faith and charity. These three stabilize our lives regardless of the rough or uneven surfaces we might encounter at the time. The scriptures are clear and certain about the importance of hope. The Apostle Paul taught that the scriptures were written to the end that we 'might have hope.'1Sunday SchoolWhat is the purpose of the Book of Mormon?

39 And after it had come forth unto them I beheld aotherbbooks, which came forth by the power ofthe Lamb, from theGentiles unto them, unto thecconvincingoftheGentilesandthe remnant ofthe seed of my brethren, and also theJews who were scattered upon all the face ofthe earth, that the records ofthe prophets andofthe twelve apostles ofthe Lamb are dtrue.

12 And as I spake concerning theaconvincingofthebJews, that Jesus is thecvery Christ, it must needs be that theGentiles be convinced also that Jesus is the Christ, thedEternaleGod;

Testify of Christ

Reinforce the Bible

Remember God

Moroni 10:3 3 Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how amercifulthe Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, andbponder it in your chearts.

Moroni 10:2-3

2 And I aseal up bthese records, after I have spoken a few words by way of exhortation unto you.

3 Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how amercifulthe Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, andbponder it in your chearts.

Within every soul is a rose. Many times we only see the thorns on us and fail to water our soul that the rose may bloom.

People that share a sense of direction travel more quickly like a flock of geese flying in formation. Geese also honk to encourage each other. When one goose falls ill two geese follow it to the ground and stay with it until it dies or can fly. After that they fly together to catch up to the flock.

If we change the words to one of our hymns slightly we get these words:Have I done any good in the WARD today. Have I helped anyone in need? (Hymn 223)

From the Bulletin:"As we come to the close of this year I feel that we all need to look at the decisions that we are making for our New Years resolutions.

The decisions we make and the way we behave are what ultimately shape our character. Charles A. Hall aptly describes that process in these lines: 'We sow our thoughts, and we reap our actions; we sow our actions, and we reap our habits; we sow our habits, and we reap our destiny'" (Ensign November 2001 "Our Actions Determine Our Character" Elder Wayne S. Peterson).

Let's all strive to make and keep New Years resolutions that will bring us closer to our Heavenly Father."

The most important meeting of the week is this Sacrament Service. Please keep the chapel reverent before, during, and after meetings so we may all enjoy the full influence of the Holy Ghost. Thank you so very much.

22 Therefore, whoso arepenteth and cometh unto me bas a clittle child, him will I receive, for of such is the kingdom of God. Behold, for such Ihavedlaid down my life, and have taken it up again; therefore repent, and comeunto me ye ends of the earth, and be saved.

Elders' QuorumChapter 23: “How Good and How Pleasant It Is … to Dwell Together in Unity” 271–80One of the headings in the manual stated, "When we work together in unity, we can better accomplish the purposes of God. " I think this is true in most pursuits. I have often thought about this principle in looking at technology. Even though certain technologies advance at lightning speeds, but other areas lag. Companies compete and that drives certain technologies to some degree, but are often restricted by what makes the fastest and biggest profit. How much further would technologies be advanced and how many more technologies would we have if people and companies worked together more and compete less?

We develop drugs like Viagra by competition and driven by stock holders, but where would we be on the research about cancer, AIDS, or the many other big cripplers and killers if companies and people cooperated and joined forces more?

A group of carpenters can not build a house alone. We are building God's kingdom. We need to do whatever big or small job we have. Similar to what Elder Ucktdorf talked about in his conference talk "Lift Where You Stand".

What are our attitudes while we work? Do we impact our productivity and spirituality because we work with a bad or less than good attitude.

Sunday SchoolLesson 43: “How Could Ye Have Departed from the Ways of the Lord?” 190Moroni 1-6No matter where we go in the Church the organization is the same. Moroni tells us of some of the way the Church was organized in his day. In chapter 4 and 5 he tells us how to bless the sacrament. In chapter 6 he tells us of the preparation and requirements for baptism.

Moroni is being pursued by those trying to kill him. He prays that what he writes will bless their children. In chapter 4 and he tells us how to bless the sacrament. In chapter 6 he tells us of the preparation and requirements for baptism.

Sacrament ServiceThe choir sang and gave a Christmas program. They had people read scripture between songs. During one song they had a handful of young girls sing a couple of the verses. They incorporated a guitar and a violin in parts of the program as well.

From the Bulletin:What Could I Possibly Do to Top This?In this season where we celebrate the biggest and best birthday, what gift could we possibly give the birthday child, Jesus? Couldn't we give Him our gifts of truly broken and repentant hearts, determined and contrite spirits, willing and obedient hearts, and senses of immeasurable gratitude for what we have been given including our humbling and teaching trials. How about the gift of forgiving others - we expect others to give the gift of forgiving to us? How about an honest tithe and generous fast offering? Would sharing the gospel be offensive to Him? And oh!! Regular attendance in the temple to give others (and ourselves) precious gifts at the temple? We are sure that our carefully planning out and completing our callings as well as giving generous doses of service so His work could move forward would not hurt his feelings either.

In the end, our gifts are very tiny (yet critical) compared to the gift of eternal life that He gives us for our efforts here on earth. Ultimately, regardless of what we give, His gift of grace saves us all.

Who Really Cares?Unless a commitment is made, there are only promises and hopes; but no plans. Heavenly Father really does care and is committed to each of us and so He made a real, living, breathing plan to save each of us.

Let us likewise make real plans that are solidly linked to His. Let's write down measurable goals and cut them up into daily, bit-sized pieces. Let's review then often...putting habits of success into motion. And then, let's watch the miracles that come about as we do so.

Monday, December 15, 2008

ObservationsWe are new to Utah. In Indiana when it dumps snow on you there is a lot of grumbling about the mess it has made and how hard it is to get around and how cold it is. Today it dropped enough snow to make the roads slippery and driveways a little treacherous. As I listened to people at church I heard no complaints, but I heard a lot of gratefulness for the moisture. I guess we are behind for the season. It appears that winter is the time we get our moisture into the ground and into the reservoirs. Although I do seem to recall seeing them dumping water down the river out of the reservoir in the fall this year. I have a lot to learn about the area here.Priesthood OpeningIsaiah 1:15-19

15 And when ye spread forth your hands, I will hide mine eyes from you: yea, when ye make many aprayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of bblood.

16 ¶ aWash you, make you bclean; put away the cevil of your doings from before mine eyes; dcease to do evil;

The bishop said that this is the season for giving. He said to keep our eyes open for people that we have means to give to.

Elders' QuorumChapter 22: Gaining Knowledge of Eternal Truths 261–270"A man is saved no faster than he gets knowledge..." (History of the Church, 4:588; from a discourse given by Joseph Smith on Apr. 10, 1842, in Nauvoo, Illinois; reported by Wilford Woodruff. )

Ignorance generally leads to dependence. With knowledge we become independent. With knowledge we are able to lift others and help them become independent.

The BYU motto is Enter to learn, go forth to serve.

Joseph loved knowledge for its righteous power.

It is not wisdom to gain knowledge all at once, but little by little that we may comprehend it.

5 And it came to pass that Ether did prophesy great and marvelous things unto the people, which they did not believe, because they asaw them not.

6 And now, I, Moroni, would speak somewhat concerning these things; I would show unto the world that afaith is things which are bhoped for and cnot seen; wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no dwitness until after the etrial of your faith.

What does it mean to have no witness until a trial of our faith.-We only reach or search for the light when it is sometimes dark.-Loss of job-Health problems-A doctrine issue that is new to us that we come upon.

Brother of Jared was mighty in writing.

Ether 12:26-27

26 And when I had said this, the Lord spake unto me, saying: aFoolsbmock, but they shall mourn; and my grace is sufficient for the meek, that they shall take no advantage of your weakness;

27 And if men come unto me I will show unto them their aweakness. I bgive unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my cgrace is sufficient for all men that dhumble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make eweak things become strong unto them.

Sacrament ServiceFirst SpeakerJoshua 24:23-24

23 Now therefore put away, said he, the strange agods which are among you, and incline your heart unto the Lord God of Israel.

24 And the people said unto Joshua, The Lord our God will we serve, and his voice will we obey.

He talked of him and his wife being prompted that they need to move and go to school in a different town. He said he feels a little like Lehi who was commanded to leave everything behind, take his family, and go. This brother doesn't know where they are going to live or where he is going to work.

Even though we did a much longer move recently and was very nerve racking coming to a new state and finding a house long distance, we did have a job waiting for us.

Second SpeakerA returned missionary that just got back from the South Side of Chicago.

-Ether 12: 27 27 And if men come unto me I will show untothem their aweakness. I bgiveunto men weakness that they may be humble; and my cgrace is sufficient for all men that dhumble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make eweakthingsbecomestronguntothem.

Third Speaker - Stake High CouncilmanHe talked of his admiration for Christmas movies. He referenced a few of them.-The Grinch - "No one should be alone on Christmas" - -Matt. 25: 40, 45

40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have adoneit unto oneofthebleastofthese my cbrethren, ye have done it unto me.

-A Christmas Carol - Scrooge goes to his nephew and asks if he can have Christmas dinner with him. Instead of scorning Scrooge for having been so mean to him he forgives him and takes him right in. - - Doctrine and Covenants 64:1010 I, theLord, willaforgive whom Iwillforgive, but of you it is required to bforgive all men.

-It's a Wonderful Life - The main character has a wonderful life, but doesn't know it. -Doctrine and Covenants 84:33,38

38 And he that receiveth my Father receiveth my Father’s akingdom; therefore ball that my Father hath shall be given unto him.

- We give Him our will and He gives us all he has.

From the Bulletin:The Best Christmas Ever - By President Thomas S. Monson

Giving, not getting, brings to full bloom the Christmas spirit. Enemies are forgiven, friends remembered, and God obeyed. The spirit of Christmas illuminates the picture window of the soul, and we look out upon the world's busy life and become more interesting in people than things. To catch the real meaning of the "spirit of Christmas" we need only to drop the last syllable, and it becomes the "Spirit of Christ." In the early 1930's Margaret Kisilevich and her sister Nellie gave a Christmas gift to their neighbors, the Kozicki family, which was remembered by them all their lives and which has become an inspiration to their families.

Home to Margaret back then was Two Hills, Alberta, Canada - a farming community. Margaret and Nellie decided to invite the Kozicki family, by the way of the children, for Christmas dinner. They also decided not to tell anyone in their family of the invitation. Their father was th first to notice a team of horses and a sleigh packed with 13 people coming down their lane. He, being a horse lover, could recognize a team from a long distance. He asked his wife, "Why are the Kozicki coming here?" Her response to him was, "I don't know." The adults ate first and then the plates and cutlery were washed, and the children ate in shifts. It was a glorious feast, made better by the sharing of it. After everyone had eaten, they sang Christmas carols together, and then the adults settled dow for another chat Margaret and Nellie took the children into the bedroom and pulled from under the beds several boxes filled with hand-me-downs they had been given by their mother's merchant friends. It was was heavenly chaos, with an instant fashion show and everyone picking whatever clothes and footwear they wanted. Early in the afternoon, before it got too cold and dark with the setting sun, Margaret's family bid farewell to their friends, who left well fed, well clothed, and well shod.

If we are to have the very best Christmas ever, we must listen for the sound of sandaled feet. We must reach out for the Carpenter's hand. With every step we take in His footsteps, we abandon a doubt and gain a truth.

Sunday, December 14, 2008

The singing group Eclipse spoke to and sung for us. It was a little odd for me to see a "performance" in the chapel. It was reverent. It was probably just weird because there were six of them and they are professional singers.

They are an a capella group. The music was pretty good. I've like a capella music since I saw a protestant group rehearsing at an old movie theater where I was helping my friend prepare the theater for their concert.

First SpeakerHe introduced the members of the group. He served a mission to London. He use to live in the South Ogden Stake where the fireside was being held.

The gift of healing.

Alma 34: 16 16 And thus amercycansatisfythedemandsofbjustice, and encircles them in the arms of safety, while he that exercises no faith unto repentance is exposed to the whole law ofthedemandsofcjustice; therefore only unto him that has faith unto repentance is brought about the great and eternal dplanoferedemption.

Second SpeakerHe shared a story about Sylvia Martin, the author of the next song they would sing. She visited a family that had a lot of health problems.

She asked the family why they were so happy with all their problems. They responded, "His eyes are on the sparrow. We know he watches us.

Matt 6:2626 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?

8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the aglory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you agood tidings of great bjoy, which shall be to all people.

11 For unto you is aborn this day in the city of David a bSaviour, which is Christ the cLord.

12 And this shall be a asign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14 aGlory to God in the highest, and on earth bpeace, good will toward men.

The angel appeared to mere shepherds.

He talked about Elder Ucktdorf talking about light in the Christmas devotional.

Fourth SpeakerThe speaker said that they grew up in a family of ten.

He said that they had a nativity scene that they had used since the oldest kids were very young. He said that he broke a piece in it once and he noticed that many of the pieces had glue on them.

From a young age he knew when setting up the scene that the baby Jesus was placed in the center of the scene. Our focus should also be our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus.Fifth SpeakerHe talked about Joseph and the amazing responsibility he took on. The responsibility of raising the savior of the world and also taking on the responsibility of marrying a woman that became pregnant before being married in a society that was very strict about such things. He could have put her to public scorn or broke it off with her privately or marry her.

The speaker read a fictional narrative from Joseph's perspective about his thoughts on what it would be like to raise Jesus.

Sunday, December 07, 2008

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf-2nd Counselor in First PresidencyHe talked about when he was a child that Christmas started four weeks before Christmas during Advent.

On Christmas Eve one of his parents would take the children through the neighborhood to look at the lighted houses. He said that they they were very small lights, but he remembered how even the dimmest lights penetrated the darkness.

May we remember that Jesus Christ is the light of the world. Through our acts of compassion and love, let us fill the world with His light.

President Henry B. Eyring - First Counselor in the First PresidencyHe talked about the Christmas pageants they would put on as a family and how they grew. First it was just him, his wife, and a doll. As children came into their family the cast filled out.

They eventually add Samuel the Lamanite testifying of the coming Savior's birth. As the children grew older they had to remind them that Samuel could not be hit since he was delivering the message of the Lord. Yet it took courage to be Samuel in their home.

The Savior chose to leave the Father's side and be born in a stable. He chose to heal and teach the people. He chose to suffer in the Garden of Gethsemane. He chose to die on the cross.

Elder Eyring shared the story of a bishop that would often receive people passing through the area to his dinner table. During the economic hard times of the day there were many traveling from place to place trying to find employment to feed their families. This bishop's dinner table often had strangers at it. After the meal he would fit them with some surplus army coats he had purchased and another meal packaged for later.

He said that he hoped we have and give a joyous Christmas.

President Thomas S. Monson - ProphetIt is essential that we make a concious concerted effort to bring Christ into our lives and into our homes.

There are hearts to gladden. There are kind words to say. There are gifts to be given. There are deeds to be done. There are souls to be saved.

41 And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and ahappy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are bblessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out cfaithful to the end they are received into dheaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it.

We were reminded that in the last general conference President Monson asked us to pray for areas of the world that are not open for missionary work.

Elders' Quorum

What does it mean to be a saint?

-Consistent - We can be counted on. Dependable.

-Concise - Take the assignment and get it done without procrastinating and dragging it out.

-Caring - Knowing your home teaching families and neighbors.

-Charitable - We have covenanted to give of our time and our substance to help others.

6 And now, I, Moroni, would speak somewhat concerning these things; I would show unto the world that afaith is things which are bhoped for and cnot seen; wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no dwitness until after the etrial of your faith.

-Faith can eliminate fear.

What can you do with faith? Anything if that faith is on the foundation of Jesus Christ.

What have we done with our faith?

We talked of the brother of Jared.

“While residing in Kirtland Elder Reynolds Cahoon had a son born to him. One day when President Joseph Smith was passing his door, he called the Prophet in and asked him to bless and name the baby. Joseph did so and gave the boy the name of Mahonri Moriancumer. When he had finished the blessing he laid the child on the bed, and turning to Elder Cahoon he said, ‘The name I have given your son is the name of the brother of Jared; the Lord has just shown [or revealed] it to me.’ Elder William F. Cahoon … heard the Prophet make this statement to his father; and this was the first time the name of the brother of Jared was known in the Church in this dispensation” (George Reynolds, “The Jaredites,” Juvenile Instructor, 1 May 1892, 282).

Someone in the class said they were related to Reynolds Cahoon.

The brother of Jared was a large and mighty man.

The Lord answered him because he was persistent.

Ether 2: 8-108 And he had sworn in his wrath unto the brother of Jared, that whoso should possess this land of promise, from that time henceforth and forever, should aserve him, the true and only God, or they should bebsweptoff when the fulness of his wrath should come upon them.9 And now, we can behold the decrees of God concerning this land, that it is a land of promise; and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall serve God, or they shall beasweptoff when the fulness of his bwrath shall come upon them. And the fulness of his wrath cometh upon them when they are cripened in iniquity.10 For behold, this is a land which is choice above all other lands; wherefore he that doth possess it shall serve God or shall beasweptoff; for it is the everlasting decree of God. And it is not until the bfulness of iniquity among the children of the land, that they are csweptoff.

Bring ideas to the Lord and get his approval and ask for his help. There may be more than one solution and the Lord may not care which one you choose as long as you keep him involved.

Doctrine and Covenants 58:26-27

26 For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is acompelled in all things, the same is a bslothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward.

27 Verily I say, men should beaanxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness;

From the Bulletin:I believe in the second mile. I have come to know that the first mile of simple obedience and its attending blessings are critical, but it is in our freely giving the second mile where one freely stretches the giving in time and resources that they Lord hands out amazing blessings and miracles. NO one that I know who pays a full tithe and FREELY GIVES a generous fast offering goes without. No one. We eventually reap what we sow (Galatians 6:7).

Additionally, there is not such thing as a free lunch. Little by little, often imperceptibly in the decoy-filled world, our minds become conditioned to getting the things we want with as little effort as possible. Elder F. Burton Howard said in that "We guard our giving, that we may have more time for getting. Many seek grades without effort, athletic attainment without training, musical excellence without practice. They try to lose weight without diet and to be free without being responsible. Others become more concerned with finding the right person than they are with being the right right person." ("On Giving and Getting," New Era, 10/85)

the strait and narrow road to true joy and eventual exaltation is a toll road. the tariff is gratitude, reverence, prayer and pondering, studying, planning and discipline, hard work, empathetic service, and love in action. It is paying the price for everything we get and then giving it away. those who travel the strait road are never the same. What may seem as unpleasant -- initially -- turns out to be the sweetest and most desired road of all. What we GIVE OURSELVES TO is what brings meaning, joy and purpose to our lives, not what we get or gain. - The Bishop

Friday, December 05, 2008

Joseph B Wirthlin Jr. - Son of Elder WirthlinHe talked about how they are sad because they miss him, but they rejoice that he is reunited with their mother and others that he has missed.

His dad never saw himself as anyone special.

He didn't pay attention to what others thought. He just did what he was called to do no matter how difficult.

"In living our lives let us never forget that the deeds of our fathers and mothers are theirs, not ours; that their works cannot be counted to our glory; that we can claim no excellence and no place, because of what they did, that we must rise by our own labor, and that labor failing we shall fail. We may claim no honor, no reward, no respect, nor special position or recognition, no credit because of what our fathers were or what they wrought. We stand upon our own feet in our own shoes. There is no aristocracy of birth in this Church; it belongs equally to the highest and the lowliest; for as Peter said to Cornelius, the Roman centurion, seeking him:" ("To Them of the last Wagon" J. Ruben Clark Jr. First Counselor in the First Presidency July 1975)

Alma 40: 2323 The asoul shall be brestored to the cbody, and the body to the soul; yea, and every limb and joint shall be restored to its body; yea, even a dhair of the head shall not be lost; but all things shall be restored to their properandeperfectframe.

The gloom of the Friday that Jesus was buried and the joy of the Sunday when he was resurrected. We will all have our Fridays, but Sunday will come. Elder Wirthlin talked more about this in his October 2006 general conference talk Sunday Will Come.

Elder Russell M. Nelson - ApostleElder Nelson served on a stake high council with Elder Wirthlin and then Elder Wirthlin was one of his councilors in the stake presidency.

He talked of Elder Wirthlin's spirit of service.

Elder Boyd K. Packer - President of the Quorum of the Twelve ApostlesHe shared the testimony that Elder Wirthlin bore recently.

He related stories of Elder Wirthlin erving his mission and being in WWII. He talked about being in the church where Silent Night was composed.

23 And nowIwouldthat ye shouldbeahumble, and bebsubmissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperateinallthings; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive.

24 And see that ye have afaith, hope, and charity, and then ye will always abound in good works.

President Thomas S. Monson - ProphetHe compared Elder Wirthlin to the man described in 1 Samuel 9:6 6 And he said unto him, Behold now, there isin this city a man of God, and he is an honourable man; allthat he saith cometh surely to pass: now let us go thither; peradventure he can shew us our way that we should go.

He talked of Elder Wirthlin's football career, his career in the family business, and his work in the twelve.

President Monson stated, "At last his spirit is freed from a body worn by work and impaired by age."

President Monson challeged Elder Wirthlin's posterity that they may live worthy to live wih him again one day as he and his wife are together now.

Sunday, November 30, 2008

From the Bulletin:Matthew 11:28 "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."

The invitation to come unto Christ is extended to every person in every circumstance in life. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles asked us to come unto Christ in a more personal way, "My desire today is for all of us...to have more straightforward personal experience with the Savior's example. Sometimes we seek heaven too obliquely, focusing on programs or history or the experience of others. Those are important but not as important as personal experience, true discipleship, and the strength that comes from experiencing first hand the majesty of His touch."

Those quiet moments where we experience the personal touch of the Savior on your life can make or break the spirit you carry for a very long time. In a world that is so loud, where our attention is demanded almost 24/7, taking fifteen or thirty minutes even to get in touch with the Savior with no other distractions, turn off the phone, go into a room away from TV, the internet, family responsibilities, even church responsibilities and just feel the love of the Savior penetrate your soul.

The Savior wants to know you as badly as you NEED to know Him. Take thirty minutes this week to let the love of the Savior touch your life in a very personal way.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

From the Bulletin:Elder David A. Bednar shared three principles that can help our prayers become more meaningful.

Prayer becomes more meaningful as we counsel with the Lord in all our doings (Alms 37:37).We are promised that if we pray sincerely for that which is right and good and in accordance with God's will, we can be blessed, protected, adn directed (3 Nephi 18:20;D&C 19:38). During the course of the day, we keep a prayer in our heart for continued assistance and guidance - even as Alma suggested: "Let all thy thoughts be directed unto the Lord" (Alma 37:36).

Prayer becomes more meaningful as we express heartfelt gratitude.As we strive to make our prayers more meaningful, we should remember that "in nothing doth man offend God, or against none is his wrath kindled, save those who confess not his hand in all things and obey not his commands" (D&C 59:21).

Prayer becomes more meaningful as we pray for others with real intent and a sincere heart.The Savior is the perfect example of praying for others with real intent. In His great Intercessory Prayer uttered on the night before His Crucifixion, Jesus prayed for His Apostles and all of the Saints, "I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine..." "Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word...that the love wherewith thou hast love me may be in them, and I in them" (John 17:9, 20, 26)."Elder David A. Bednar, "Pray Always," Ensign. November 2008, 41.

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Priesthood OpeningAlma 19:6 6 Now, this was what Ammon desired, for he knew that king Lamoni was under the power of God; he knew that the dark aveil of bunbelief was being cast away from his mind, and the clight which did light up his mind, which was the light of the glory of God, which was a marvelous light of his goodness—yea, this light had infused such joy into his soul, the cloud of darkness having been dispelled, and that the light of everlasting life was lit up in his soul, yea, he knew that this had dovercome his natural frame, and he was carried away in God—

The bishop asked us to evaluate some things in our lives.

Get rid of sins. Confess anything that needs to be and stop carrying around the extra weight.

Assess your desires.

How do you spend your time?

The bishop quoted one of the apostles or prophets that stated that the Church will be at the epicenter of issues in the last days. The bishop said that Proposition 8 is probably just one of many issues to come that will cause tension between the Church and the world. He said that we have been seeing sinful ideas building on the coasts of the United States, but they will eventually more to the interior.

Everyone must get answers from the Lord individually for us to act collectively effectively.

In the last days Judah must be restored. Jerusalem must be rebuilt and the temple there. Water must flow from the temple and heal the dead sea.

“Judah must return, Jerusalem must be rebuilt, and the temple, and water come out from under the temple, and the waters of the Dead Sea be healed [see Ezekiel 47:1–9]." (Bottom of P252)

Just because one of our neighbors suffer in the last days doesn't mean they are sinning and we ourselves are not immune from what is coming.

We have to have personal testimony for us to make it through what is coming. Family members may die. We may be afflicted.

The Lord will not come until all the things the prophets have said has been fulfilled.

Sunday SchoolLesson 42: “This Is My Gospel” 185“Others refer to us as Mormons. I do not mind if they use that title. However, sometimes we are prone ourselves to say ‘Mormon Church.’ I do not think it best for us to do so” (“The Peaceable Followers of Christ,” Ensign, Apr. 1998, 64). Jesus named His Church.

3 Nephi 27:7-8

7 Therefore, whatsoever ye shall do, ye shall do it in my name; therefore ye shall call the church in my name; and ye shall call upon the Father in my name that he will bless the church for my sake.

8 And how be it amybchurch save it be called in my name? For if a church be called in Moses’ name then it be Moses’ church; or if it be called in the name of a man then it be the church of a man; but if it be called in my name then it is my church, if it so be that they are built upon my gospel.

Someone shared a story of people helping after Hurricane Katrina. A member of the Church introduced themselves as being a member of the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to one of the people in the area. The person responded, "Your church and the Mormons have been so much help."

We should endure to the end. We are worse off to have been baptized and made covenants to God and then not continue faithful to the end than if we had not been baptized and not have known. Of course some may then argue that they don't want to take on the responsibility of being baptized. Once you know you are responsible for choosing to be baptized or not.

Someone noted that there is a bus advertisement from an atheist group that states something like, "Why do we need God? Be good for goodness sake." Ever so slowly our society is replacing Christ with Santa Clause. Santa Clause doesn't require anything of you and just drops toys on you. There is the naughty and nice list, but what are these criteria? Do we ever hear of coal being doled out? Even the most spoiled kids get gifts from "Santa".

Remember the basics: Prayer, scripture study, family home evening. If these things are getting done then the bigger things start fall into place. If these things are not getting done, then cut some things out of your schedule and drop back to the basics.

Sacrament ServiceThey read the first presidency letter on the Updated version of Mormon.org.They stated that lds.org was designed for the needs of members of the church and mormon.org was designed for those not of our faith.

The bishop stated that airing our tires and putting gas in our cars may seem boring, but we don't get far without doing those things. The same is true of the basics of the gospel.

Youth SpeakerShe talked about the Proclamation on the Family and its importance. She also talked about the things her family does together.

First Adult SpeakerShe just returned from a mission to New Jersey.3 Nephi 13:3333 But aseek ye first the bkingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.

Tithing is used for the building up of the kingdom of God. It is something we give back to God. It is a privilege.

Mal. 3: 10 10 Bring ye all the atithes into the storehouse, that there may be bmeat in mine house, and cprove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will notdopen you the ewindows of heaven, and pour you out a fblessing, that there shallnotbe roomenough to receive it.

Test him to see if he will bless you.

Tithing is one of the biggest expressions of our faith. Money is hard to come by and necessary for our survival these days. Even when people paid in chickens and such they were giving the things they needed for life. and had to trust that He would care for them.

There was a flute and piano duet of Come Follow Me

Second Adult SpeakerOften we prepare talks and lessons for us more than for those we teach.

Salt

Kill Germs

Preserves Food

Flavors Food

If it loses its savor it is good for nothing and can't do those things anymore.

Only loses its savor through contamination, otherwise it would stay functional forever.

Personal revelation can guide our lives. We can get guidance from God if we seek it. Just as the prophet gets guidance from God to lead the Church or the bishop to lead the ward.

Things that invite to do good is of God.

Still small voice is something we feel more than we hear.

From the Bulletin:Stand Close and Lift Where You StandIn a message to instruct the brethren that we are all responsible an accountable fo moving the Lord's (our) work forward, President Uchtdorf compared this great work in the Gospel to that of moving a large grand piano. When the brethren in a LDS building in Germany could not carry the grand piano from the chapel to the cultural hall, a wise brother suggested that the brethren "Stand Close And Lift Where You Stand." When they did, the piano moved almost effortlessly.

So, brothers and sisters, let us get a little closer together - watching out to reach other in home and visiting teaching, etc. - and left one another in the area we are called to STAND (not sit). Without the consistent closeness and support of each other, we will never move our "grand piano" of challenges forward either.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

The speaker was Jack R. Christianson. He went to the student ward with one of our bishopric members when Brother Christianson went to Weber State University.

He stated, "I'm a missionary till I draw my very last breath."

He said that a friend of his that lives in California had a cross burnt on his lawn with a sign that said, "Here lives a Mormon bigot."

Eliminate contention from our lives.3 Ne. 11: 2929 For verily, verily I say unto you, he that hath the spirit of acontention is not of me, but is of the bdevil, who is the father of contention, and he stirreth up the hearts of men to contendwithanger, one with another.

2 Nephi 33:11 And now I, Nephi, cannot write all the things which were taught among my people; neither am I amighty in writing, like unto speaking; for when a man bspeaketh by the power of the Holy Ghost the power of the Holy Ghost carrieth it unto the hearts of the children of men.

The Spirit carries messages unto the hearts, not into the hearts. It is our job to bring the message into our hearts.

He said to disagree without being disagreeable. He and his wife do not agree on many things including how to raise/discipline their children, but they love each other more than anything on earth.

It doesn't matter who's right. It only matters what's right.

3 Nephi 9:1313 O all ye that are aspared because ye were more brighteous than they, will ye not now return unto me, and repent of your sins, and be converted, that I may cheal you?

If you want to know why God would let something like "that" happen then why don't you go ask him. If you stay mad at God you will never understand.

He admonished us to not get caught up in the hypocrisy of the members and let that get in the of us knowing the church is true. The key is not just to know it is true, but to be true to it.

66 ¶ From that time many of his adisciples went back, and bwalked no more with him.

67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?

68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the awords of eternal life.

69 And awe believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the bSon of the living God.

Brother Christenson said that he use to love to smell cigarette smoke in the chapel, because he felt that it meant someone was trying. What if all sins had a smell like drinking and smoking do? How would the chapel smell each week? We should not count people out since we don't know why they do what they do. The Lord does.

He recommended that we read Elders Eyring's and Nelson's conference talks (Our Hearts Knit as One and Christian Courage: The Price of Discipleship) to gain some insight into responding to those that disagree with us because we are members of the Church. He also said to learn Church history, so that when people misquote it or sensationalize it we are not shaken.

Sunday, November 09, 2008

Priesthood OpeningMosiah 2: 4141 And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessedandahappystate of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are bblessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out cfaithful to the end they are received into dheaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it.

"We treasure the word of God not only by reading the words of the scriptures but by studying them. We may be nourished more by pondering a few words, allowing the Holy Ghost to make them treasures to us, than to pass quickly and superficially over whole chapters of scripture."(November 1997 Ensign P84 Elder Eyring “Feed My Lambs”)

Sacrament MeetingPrimary ProgramThe children sangs songs and gave scriptures for the meeting.

From the BulletinAngel at the sales counter:“You can have anything you want.”“I would like you to end world hunger, violence...”“Oh, my good friend, we sell the seeds of blessings and not the fruits.”

If life “stinks” for you, please stop living in survival mode and develop a concerted plan of living the Gospel with exactness and consistency. Though it may bring some pride – appealing satisfaction, let go of anger and judging. Take on Alma 7:11, 12. Cut out the bad: control the good: and focus on and maximize the important. Then, and only THEN, will we feel the power of God surging through and guiding our lives. Try as we may find it, THERE IS NO OTHER WAY.The Bishop

This week, in addition to your DAILY scripture study and prayers, if you have access to www.LDS.org please read” The Inexhaustible Gospel”by Elder Neil A. Maxwell. Please pray and make notes about what Heavenly Father would like you to do with what you learned there.The Bishop

27 Verily I say, men should be aanxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness;

The bishop restated again to not go into debt for Christmas and to stay out of debt in general. He stated that a home and education and sometimes a vehicle are the only things that we should be in debt for. Some focus on that a house is ok for debt and they go beyond their means. Some also assume that they assume that they are the sometimes referred to and finance a car and then extend themselves beyond their means or at least what is permissible by God.

Elders' QuorumThe elders' quorum president reviewed how to administer to the sick with a priesthood blessing.

Only Melchizedek Priesthood holders may administer to the sick or afflicted.

Administering to the sick has two parts: (1) anointing with oil and (2) sealing the anointing.

If a person requests more than one blessing for the same illness, the priesthood holder usually does not need to anoint with oil after the first blessing. Instead, he gives a blessing by the laying on of hands and the authority of the priesthood.

Dress in church clothes where possible.

He also expressed that we should do our best to plan our lives with the information we have, but be prepared to change as the Lord reveals more information and new opportunities and priorities to us.

Take notes. Our minds alone are often no sharper than the dullest pencil.

Why was Israel scattered? - To spread the gospel to other parts of the world.3 Nephi 16:44 And I command you that ye shall awrite these sayings after I am gone, that if it so be that my people at Jerusalem, they who have seen me and been with me in my ministry, do not ask the Father in my name, that they may receive a knowledge of you by the Holy Ghost, and also of the other tribes whom they know not of, that these sayings which ye shall write shall be kept and shall be manifested unto the bGentiles, that through the fulness of the Gentiles, the remnant of their seed, who shall be scattered forth upon the face of the earth because of their cunbelief, may be brought in, or may be brought to a dknowledge of me, their Redeemer.

Gentiles - Nations without the gospel or people not born into the tribe of Israel.

What is the gathering of Israel? - Missionary work.3 Nephi 20:10-15

10 And it came to pass that when they had all given glory unto Jesus, he said unto them: Behold now I finish the commandment which the Father hath commanded me concerning this people, who are a remnant of the house of Israel.

11 Ye remember that I spake unto you, and said that when the awords of bIsaiah should be fulfilled—behold they are written, ye have them before you, therefore search them—

12 And verily, verily, I say unto you, that when they shall be fulfilled then is the fulfilling of the acovenant which the Father hath made unto his people, O house of Israel.

13 And then shall the aremnants, which shall be bscattered abroad upon the face of the earth, be cgathered in from the east and from the west, and from the south and from the north; and they shall be brought to the dknowledge of the Lord their God, who hath redeemed them.

14 And the Father hath acommanded me that I should give unto you this bland, for your inheritance.

15 And I say unto you, that if the Gentiles do not arepent after the bblessing which they shall receive, after they have scattered my people—

At different phases of the work the Lord has gathered the people to different places in order to best grow the Church. At first the gathering was New York, Ohio, Missouri, Nauvoo, and now it is in your own city, state, country where you are to grow the Church and missionaries are sent forth to assist those who are gathering (the stakes of Zion).

Israel Facts

The Book of Mormon - Records of the scattered tribes to convince that Jesus is the Christ.

Joseph smith is a descendant of Israel, but he was born in a gentile nation, so the gathering is coming out from the gentiles as the scriptures say.

Gathering doesn't just mean just restoring Israel to their homeland.

The Lord will remember the covenant made to Abraham. Through his seed the kingdoms of the earth shall be blessed.

The blood of Israel was also scattered throughout all nations.

Gentiles that repent are adopted into the house of Israel. The Jews that don't repent are disowned.

Meanings of Israel - The main, the 12 tribes, and also the elect of God.

Testimony MeetingThe bishop said the Holy Ghost is t comfort and to teach. Jesus has suffered our afflictions and knows how to comfort us and can send the Holy Ghost in that way.

Alma 7: 12 12 And he will take upon him adeath, that he may bloose the bands of death which bind hispeople; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh howtocsuccorhispeople according to their infirmities.

From the Bulletin"When we invite the Holy Ghost to fill our minds with light and knowledge. He 'quickens' us, that is to say, enlightens and enlivens the inner man or woman. As a result we notice a measurable difference in our soul. We feel strengthened, filled with peace and joy. We possess spiritual energy and enthusiasm, both of which enhance our natural abilities. We can accomplish more than we otherwise could do on our own. We yearn to become a holier person.

If you set your payment, which is your personal effort, very low, you may not be able to avail yourself of all the Spirit has to offer...

We determine the level of our current personal contribution by examining our present choices and priorities against questions such as these:

Do I spend more time with sports than Church attendance or callings?

If I have a free day, do I choose to attend the temple or visit the mall?

Do I resort to computer games or surfing the internet rather than offering meaningful service to others in my home and community?

Do I read the newspaper religiously but find it difficult to read the scriptures daily?

Our next contribution to this effort will be to immerse ourselves more consistently in the words of Christ and of the prophets. When our study efforts expand, so will the influence of the Holy Ghost in our lives increase. Let us search the scriptures with pen in hand, making note of new insights and recording spiritual promptings. Thereafter, let us strive to apply what has been learned to our personal lives. The Spirit will quicken our inner selves; new understanding will come precept upon precept."Keith K. Hilbig, "Quench Not the Spirit Which Quickens the Inner Man" Liahona, Nov 2007, 37-39)